87R9598 BPG-D
By: Campos H.R. No. 198
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, The San Antonio Food Bank is playing an increasingly
vital role during a time of unprecedented need; and
WHEREAS, Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, SAFB has
increased food distribution by 30 percent in order to help the
rising number of people in financial distress; although health
measures have closed many of the organization's traditional sources
of food donations, including convention center restaurants,
hotels, and caterers, it has built new partnerships and drawn
support from the community in order for its kitchens to double the
number of people they feed weekly, from 60,000 to 120,000; and
WHEREAS, Founded in 1980, SAFB has grown to serve people
across Southwest Texas, with client service agencies in 16 counties
that distribute both perishable and nonperishable food items; in
2017, it opened the New Braunfels Food Bank, which serves Comal and
Guadalupe Counties, and its Mobile Mercado brings locally grown
produce and other healthy foods to residents of food deserts; SAFB
cultivates 25 acres at its urban farm and an additional 50 acres at
the National Park Service's Mission San Juan Capistrano, a World
Heritage site, where it replicates traditional farming methods and
maintains a historic demonstration garden for visitors; and
WHEREAS, SAFB spends a mere two percent on overhead, allowing
it to devote 98 percent of its resources to its mission; while
addressing immediate needs, it also promotes long-term food
security and good nutrition through job placement and food and
wellness education; the organization's holistic approach to
nourishment encompasses programs for children and an initiative
that enables struggling families and individuals to continue caring
for their pets; and
WHEREAS, For more than four decades, the San Antonio Food
Bank has battled hunger in the area, and by redoubling its efforts
during the crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, it has made a
positive difference in the lives of thousands of Texans; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 87th Texas
Legislature hereby honor the San Antonio Food Bank for its service
and extend to all those associated with the organization sincere
best wishes for continued success; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the organization as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.